Manchester United are currently languishing in 15th position in the Premier League table, and judging from their form this season, a 17th-place finish cannot be ruled out.
The Red Devils’ last league win came before the international break. They have won a mere six games since Ruben Amorim’s appointment, while losing 12.
Sunday’s loss to Brentford was their 16th of the campaign, and only the three relegated teams have won fewer games since November.
INEOS are obviously disappointed and while Europa League glory is within the club’s reach, the co-owners are planning a large-scale exodus once again in order to raise capital for reinvestment into the squad.
Another revamp on the cards And they plan to be ruthless with plenty of big-name stars like Casemiro, and Rasmus Hojlund set to be sold while even Carrington graduates like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho are not safe from the cull.
Surprisingly, The Daily Star have claimed that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is open to the possibility of moving on three out of last summer’s five signings.
“United bosses, including co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are willing to sell most members of the squad provided the price is right. United are desperate to meet financial spending rules, as well as provide Amorim with funds to make new signings.
“Which means the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Luke Shaw, Manuel Ugarte, Casemiro, Rasmus Hojlund, Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee and Christian Eriksen could all be sold.”
Manuel Ugarte has shown promise in recent weeks but has taken time to adapt to his new surroundings. Criticism on his usage of the ball has been levelled but surely, the Uruguayan needs more than one season.
Three summer signings to be sold? Matthijs de Ligt has looked like one of the better defenders this term but has been injury-prone, with the Dutchman picking up his second big injury of the season against the Bees.
Zirkzee seemed to be an obvious early candidate for the axe but has since grown into a competent attacking midfielder capable of playing up top and Amorim is clearly more interested in keeping the currently sidelined star at the club than Hojlund.
It will also be difficult for United to acquire suitors for Shaw given his poor injury record while Eriksen is expected to leave on a free as his contract is up at the end of the season.
Hopefully, Champions League qualification will mean only a few sales are required to add to Amorim’s transfer war chest.
Feature image Alex Pantling via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
